Known in ancient times as Costa, then Costale, Costigliole, which is not recorded before the year 1000, was part of the city of Asti before that date. After that the Asinari family, together with the family of the countess of Castiglione, came into possession of the imposing castle, now a regional wine centre, until the 19th century. In 1800 the Marquis Filippo Asinari di San Marzano, plenipotentiary of the House of Savoy at the Congress of Vienna, and wine expert, modernised contemporary wine making.

The Costigliole area covers around 35 sq km in the heart of the Alto Monferrato, a short distance from the Asti and Cuneo sides of the Langhe. The land includes the fertile flood plains of the river Tanaro, rising up through rolling hills to an altitude of 300 metres, where you can admire an extraordinary panorama of a sea of vineyards, right up to the Alps. It is the Piedmontese commune with the highest amount of land under vines, and has an economy mainly based on agriculture.

ONE PRODUCT: THE PEPPER

In the hamlet of Motta, where the fertile land is ideal for vegetable crops such as cardoons, celery, cabbage and herbs, the most characteristic product is the Square Pepper of Asti: four-sided, fleshy, and either yellow or red in colour. Particularly appreciated for its texture and culinary versatility, it is a delicacy much sought after on the international markets and by the most discerning gourmets.